I was recently approached to do an interview for a friends website! Outside of being flattered, I immediately became inspired by this young lady's mission. I am such a huge supporter of those striving to do great things within their community in an effort to uplift. IamL.A.D.Y. is an organization with purpose of uplifting and inspiring youth via motivational seminars, mentoring, and community involvement. Check out my feature below!
IamL.A.D.Y: When did you start your career?
M.Lee: I began my career soon after graduating from college in 2008. The first photo shoot I styled was early 2009
IamL.A.D.Y: When did you realize you had a passion for fashion?
M.L.: As soon as I could walk in my Mommy's heels (laughs) Growing up, my mom would get my school clothes handmade by one of her friends who was also a great seamstress. I went into my freshman year undecided on a major, so my best friend suggested I go into fashion and here I am today! I have always thrived on being unique and over the years it naturally evolved into my love and infatuation for the art of fashion
IamL.A.D.Y: What are the primary job duties of a fashion stylist?
M.L.: Well, styling is just one of my loves! When I'm working as a stylist my biggest inspiration is the client. It's a never ending process where one idea transcends into the big picture! It's an amazing thing. The primary duties of a stylist are to accentuate the client's style while paying close attention to their values, way of life, and of course body type. My day job is a retail manager and I'm also a blogger. Currently I'm working on launching a line of tees and jewelry under the iaME umbrella and working on an online vintage boutique called 'Nostalgia's Attic.
IamL.A.D.Y: What is IaME? Where did the concept come from? What does it represent?
M.L.: iaME (pronounced I-am-Me) is a brand, concept and lifestyle. iaME’s mission is to evoke PASSION in all that it encompasses while being inspirational through the art of FASHION. We aspire to celebrate the concept of self through individuality, zeal, and perseverance!
The concept expanded from a simple doodle in my sketch book, simply playing off the phrase "I am ME" and ME meaning self and coming from the first two letters of my name Meagan. It's all about celebrating yourself and ALL that you are even if no one else is, and being confident in that feeling!
IamL.A.D.Y:If you could style anyone who would it be?
M.L.: Wow! That's a tough question. Hmmmm, I love Solange Knowles' style, she would definitely be at the top of my list and Erykah Badu has my heart! I would definitely style Nicki Minaj, not because I identify with her sense of style but I think she needs a little polishing up! Seriously, I get so distracted by her costumes that I can't focus on her talent as an MC.
IamL.A.D.Y: How do you update yourself with latest fashion trends in the market?.
M.L.: I draw alot of inspiration from people, rather friends or people I come in contact with on a daily basis! I'm inspired by passion, love and confidence. My favorite fashion publications are Elle, Nylon, and Essence, I also frequent a few blogs
IamL.A.D.Y: How do you rate your sense of choosing color & style combination for a particular fashion shoot?
M.L.: When styling a shoot, I always start with an inspiration piece. Whether it be a piece of art, a style of shoe, a particular silhouette, or an era. Something is needed to get the creative juices flowing, but the biggest inspiration is the client I'm styling. I want them to feel beautiful, exude confidence, and ultimately accentuate their particular style and best features.
IamL.A.D.Y: There must be a basic style you work with, something that's uniquely you. How would you describe this style
M.L.: four words, edgy.funky.timeless & classic!
IamL.A.D.Y:What advice would you provide to girls or boys who are inspired to be in the designer community?
M.L.:Go for it! Research schools, jobs and opportunities within your area and constantly look for ways to refine your work and passion. Remain steadfast on your set goals, never give up, and keep god first!
IamL.A.D.Y: What do you think my sense of style is? Be Honest!
M.L.: L.A.D.Y.like and uniquely YOU! =)))
